How to Restore Tile Grout

By Cat McCabe Updated September 26, 2017

Tile is an excellent flooring material, but needs regular maintenance and cleaning.

Dirty tile grout is in need of restoration.

Over time, even the cleanest tile floors gather dirt and stains on grout lines, especially in high traffic areas. Even if the tile is well-sealed, avoid using abrasive cleaners on grout lest you damage the tile. Travertine, granite, slate and marble are particularly vulnerable. Oxygen bleach and hot water will oxidize stains, lift dirt and will not damage even the most delicate tile surface. .

Sweep the tile floor with a broom to dislodge dust and dirt from the grout lines. Use a dustpan to collect the debris and throw it away in the trash.

Fill a bucket with very hot water and add 1 cup of oxygen bleach. Stir with a wooden spoon until the powder completely dissolves. Pour the mixture over the floor, submerging the grout lines. Start in a corner and work back toward an exit to avoid trapping yourself.

Allow the solution to soak into the surface for 30 minutes. Put on knee pads and enter the room. Use a soft toothbrush to scrub stains from the grout lines. Rinse the toothbrush in the bleach solution each time you finish working around a tile.

Mop the floor with plain, hot water. Let it dry. Examine the grout lines for any stains or debris you may have missed. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 in these areas.

Things You Will Need

Broom

Dustpan

Bucket

Oxygen bleach

Old, soft toothbrush

Knee pads

Mop

Tip

Periodically add a few tablespoons of oxygen bleach powder to regular detergent and hot water when you give the tile floor its regular cleaning. This will help keep the grout lines clean and bright.

Warning

Don't use chlorine bleach on tile floors or grout, especially if the tile is unsealed.